Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An audio conference device comprising: a first encoder associated with a first group of at least one audio signal having classification information of at least one audio quality that is within a first pre-selected threshold; and a second encoder associated with a second group of at least one audio signal having classification information of at least one audio quality that is within a second pre-selected threshold that differs from the first pre-selected threshold; the first encoder configured to encode audio data associated with the first group of at least one audio signal having classification information of at least one audio quality that is within the first pre-selected threshold, the first encoder configured to utilize encoder parameters to encode a first audio input signal fed to the first encoder, the first encoder configured to feed a decoder the encoded audio data via an audio data connection between the first encoder and the decoder; the second encoder configured such that encoder parameters for the second encoder are formable at a current time segment based on a fed audio input signal of a current time segment fed to the first encoder as well as by an audio input signal of at least one previous time segment fed to the first encoder to synchronize the encoder parameters of the second encoder with the encoder parameters of the first encoder such that the encoder parameters of the second encoder are identical to the encoder parameters of the first encoder; and the audio conference device configured to switch over the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder after the encoder parameters of the second encoder are synchronized with the encoder parameters of the first encoder such that during the switchover the audio data connection is switched over from the first encoder to the second encoder at an onset of synchronization of the encoder parameters of the first and second encoders and the second encoder has the audio data connection with the decoder after the switching over of the audio data connection.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems and addresses the problem of seamless switching between different audio encoding strategies without introducing audible artifacts. The system comprises at least two encoders, each associated with a group of audio signals. These groups are defined by audio quality metrics falling within specific pre-selected thresholds. A first encoder processes audio signals whose quality is within a first threshold. It encodes audio data using specific encoder parameters and transmits this encoded data to a decoder via an audio data connection. A second encoder is also present, handling audio signals within a second, different quality threshold. Crucially, the encoder parameters for this second encoder are dynamically determined. They are based on the current audio input signal fed to the first encoder, as well as audio input signals from previous time segments fed to the first encoder. This mechanism ensures that the encoder parameters of the second encoder become identical to those of the first encoder, achieving synchronization. The audio conference device is configured to switch the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder. This switchover occurs precisely at the moment the encoder parameters of both encoders become synchronized. Following the switchover, the second encoder maintains the audio data connection with the decoder. This ensures a smooth transition between encoding methods, preventing disruptions in the audio stream.
2. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein the audio conference device is configured so that within the switchover of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder, the first audio input signal is modified such that the second encoder is put into a same state as the first encoder.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing the challenge of seamless switching between audio encoders during an active conference call. The problem arises when transitioning between encoders, as differences in encoding states can cause audio artifacts or disruptions. The solution involves an audio conference device that ensures smooth switchover by modifying the first audio input signal before transitioning to the second encoder. This modification aligns the second encoder's state with the first encoder's state, preventing audio glitches or quality degradation during the switch. The device includes multiple encoders, each capable of processing audio input signals, and a controller that manages the switchover process. The controller modifies the audio input signal to synchronize the encoders' states, ensuring continuous and uninterrupted audio output. This approach is particularly useful in high-quality audio conferencing applications where seamless transitions between encoding processes are critical. The invention improves user experience by maintaining audio fidelity during encoder transitions, addressing a common issue in real-time audio communication systems.
3. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein the audio conference device is configured so that within the switchover of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder, the first audio input signal is modified to avoid discontinuities in a signal waveform of the encoded audio data sent to the decoder.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems designed to minimize audio disruptions during encoder switching. The problem addressed is the occurrence of audible glitches or discontinuities when transitioning between different audio encoders in a conference system, which can degrade user experience. The solution involves an audio conference device that modifies the first audio input signal during the switchover from a first encoder to a second encoder to prevent waveform discontinuities in the encoded audio data sent to the decoder. This modification ensures smooth transitions, maintaining audio quality and continuity. The device includes at least two encoders, each capable of encoding audio input signals into encoded audio data for transmission to a decoder. The system dynamically switches between encoders based on factors such as network conditions or user preferences, but the key innovation lies in the real-time signal modification during the switchover process. By adjusting the first audio input signal before encoding, the device avoids abrupt changes in the waveform, resulting in seamless audio playback. This approach is particularly useful in real-time communication applications where uninterrupted audio quality is critical.
4. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein the audio conference device is configured so that within the switchover of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder a state of the second encoder is modified such that the encoder parameters of the first encoder are detected and set as encoder parameters for the second encoder.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing the challenge of seamless audio data transmission during encoder switchover in conference devices. The technology ensures uninterrupted audio quality when transitioning between different audio encoders, preventing disruptions or degradation in the audio stream. The audio conference device includes at least two encoders, a first encoder and a second encoder, capable of processing audio data for transmission. During a switchover from the first encoder to the second encoder, the device modifies the state of the second encoder to match the encoder parameters of the first encoder. This synchronization ensures that the second encoder adopts the same encoding settings as the first, such as bitrate, sample rate, or codec configuration, before taking over the audio data connection. The seamless transition prevents audio artifacts or delays that could otherwise occur due to mismatched encoder states. The invention improves the reliability and quality of audio conferencing by dynamically aligning encoder parameters during switchover, maintaining consistent audio output without interruptions. This is particularly useful in scenarios where encoder redundancy or failover is required, such as in professional or large-scale conferencing systems. The solution eliminates the need for manual reconfiguration or temporary audio degradation during transitions.
5. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein synchronization of the encoder parameters of the second encoder with the encoder parameters of the first encoder comprises configuring the encoder parameters of the second encoder so that the encoder parameters of the second encoder match the encoder parameters of the first encoder and the audio conference device is configured so that switching over of the audio data connection occurs after the encoding parameters of the second encoder are matched to the encoding parameters of the first encoder.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing the challenge of seamless switching between audio encoders during a conference call without causing disruptions or quality degradation. The system includes an audio conference device with at least two audio encoders, each configured to process audio data from different sources, such as multiple microphones or participants. The device synchronizes the encoder parameters of a secondary encoder with those of a primary encoder to ensure consistent audio quality during transitions. Synchronization involves matching the secondary encoder's parameters, such as bitrate, sample rate, and codec settings, to those of the primary encoder. Once the parameters are aligned, the device switches the audio data connection from the primary encoder to the secondary encoder, ensuring uninterrupted and high-quality audio transmission. This method prevents artifacts or delays that could occur if switching happened before parameter synchronization. The system is particularly useful in professional conferencing environments where reliability and audio fidelity are critical.
6. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein synchronization of the encoder parameters of the second encoder with the encoder parameters of the first encoder occurs to prevent loss of quality occurring during the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder.
This invention relates to audio conference devices designed to maintain audio quality during transitions between encoders. The problem addressed is the degradation of audio quality that occurs when switching between different audio encoders in a conference system, typically due to mismatched encoding parameters. The solution involves synchronizing the encoder parameters of a secondary encoder with those of a primary encoder before switching the audio data connection. This synchronization ensures that the encoding settings, such as bitrate, sample rate, and codec configuration, are aligned between the two encoders. By maintaining consistent parameters during the switch, the system prevents audio artifacts, such as glitches or distortion, that would otherwise occur due to abrupt changes in encoding. The invention is particularly useful in real-time audio conferencing applications where seamless transitions between encoders are critical for maintaining a high-quality user experience. The synchronization process may involve dynamically adjusting the secondary encoder's parameters to match those of the primary encoder before the switch occurs, ensuring a smooth handoff without perceptible quality loss.
7. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein: the second encoder is configured to: create encoded audio data by using the encoder parameters of the second encoder to encode the first audio input signal fed to the second encoder after the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder; and feed the decoder encoded audio data after the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder such that the decoder receives encoded audio data continuously during the switching over and no discontinuities arise in signal waveform.
Audio conferencing systems often require seamless switching between audio encoders to maintain high-quality communication without signal interruptions. This invention addresses the problem of discontinuities in audio signals during encoder switching in audio conference devices. The device includes a first encoder and a second encoder, each configured to process audio input signals using distinct encoder parameters. When switching from the first encoder to the second encoder, the second encoder encodes the first audio input signal using its own parameters, ensuring continuous audio data flow to the decoder. This prevents signal waveform discontinuities during the transition. The system ensures that the decoder receives encoded audio data without gaps, maintaining uninterrupted audio playback. The invention improves audio conferencing reliability by eliminating disruptions caused by encoder switching, enhancing user experience in real-time communication applications.
8. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein the audio conference device is configured to release resources of the first encoder after the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing resource management during dynamic switching between audio encoders. In audio conferencing, multiple encoders may be used to handle different audio streams or quality levels, but switching between them can lead to inefficient resource utilization. The invention provides an audio conference device that optimizes resource allocation by releasing the resources of a first encoder after switching the audio data connection to a second encoder. This ensures that processing power, memory, and other computational resources are freed up once they are no longer needed, improving system efficiency. The device may include multiple encoders, each capable of encoding audio data at different bitrates, sample rates, or codecs. When the system switches from the first encoder to the second encoder, the first encoder's resources are automatically released, preventing unnecessary consumption. This approach is particularly useful in real-time conferencing applications where dynamic adjustments to audio encoding are required to adapt to changing network conditions or user preferences. The invention enhances performance by minimizing redundant resource usage while maintaining seamless audio transmission.
9. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein the audio conference device is configured so that a state of the second encoder is modified to match a state of the first encoder prior to the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing the challenge of seamless audio transitions during encoder switching to maintain call quality. The system includes an audio conference device with at least two audio encoders, where one encoder is active while the other remains in a standby state. Before switching the active audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder, the system synchronizes the state of the second encoder to match the first encoder. This synchronization ensures that the transition between encoders occurs without audio disruptions or quality degradation. The synchronization process may involve aligning encoding parameters, buffer states, or other relevant configurations between the two encoders. The device may also include a controller to manage the switching process and ensure the transition is smooth. This approach is particularly useful in high-reliability audio conferencing applications where uninterrupted audio transmission is critical. The invention improves upon prior systems by reducing latency and preventing audio artifacts during encoder transitions, enhancing the overall user experience.
10. The audio conference device of claim 9 wherein modification of the state of the second encoder occurs at an end of a time segment or between two time segments.
Audio conferencing systems often struggle with efficiently managing audio data transmission, particularly when handling multiple participants or varying network conditions. Existing solutions may not dynamically adjust encoding parameters to optimize bandwidth usage and audio quality. This invention addresses these issues by providing an audio conference device with a second encoder that can modify its state at specific intervals to improve performance. The device includes a first encoder for encoding audio data and a second encoder for further processing the encoded data. The second encoder can dynamically adjust its state, such as changing encoding parameters like bitrate or codec settings, to adapt to real-time conditions. The modification of the second encoder's state occurs at predefined intervals, either at the end of a time segment or between two consecutive time segments. This ensures smooth transitions and avoids disruptions in audio quality. The time segments may be fixed or variable in duration, depending on the system's requirements. By dynamically adjusting the second encoder's state at these intervals, the device optimizes bandwidth usage and maintains high-quality audio transmission during conferences. This approach enhances the efficiency and reliability of audio conferencing systems, particularly in environments with fluctuating network conditions.
11. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein the first and second encoders have a same encoding configuration utilizing a same encoder algorithm.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining consistent audio quality and synchronization across multiple participants in a conference call. The device includes at least two encoders that process audio signals from different sources, such as microphones or audio inputs, before transmitting them to a central conferencing server or other participants. The encoders are configured to use the same encoding algorithm and settings, ensuring uniform audio processing across all inputs. This uniformity helps prevent discrepancies in audio quality, latency, or synchronization that could otherwise arise from different encoding configurations. The device may also include a mixer that combines the encoded audio streams before transmission, further optimizing bandwidth usage and reducing processing delays. The use of identical encoding configurations simplifies system design and reduces the risk of compatibility issues between different audio sources. The invention is particularly useful in professional or large-scale conferencing environments where consistent audio performance is critical.
12. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein the encoded audio data is first encoded audio data and wherein: the audio conference device is configured so that during the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder: the first audio input signal is modified to form a second audio input signal; the second audio input signal is fed to the second encoder and to the first encoder for a predetermined time period to synchronize the encoder parameters of the first encoder with the encoding parameters of the second encoder so that the encoder parameters of the second encoder are identical to the encoding parameters of the first encoder at a time segment; and wherein the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder is completed after the time segment so that the second encoder encodes the first audio input signal to form second encoded audio data and feeds the decoder the second encoded audio data.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing the challenge of seamless switching between audio encoders during an active conference call. The problem arises when transitioning from one encoder to another, as mismatched encoding parameters can cause audio disruptions or quality degradation. The solution involves an audio conference device that modifies the first audio input signal to generate a second audio input signal, which is then fed to both the first and second encoders for a predetermined synchronization period. During this time, the encoding parameters of the first encoder are adjusted to match those of the second encoder. Once synchronization is achieved at a specific time segment, the audio data connection is fully switched from the first encoder to the second encoder, ensuring continuous and uninterrupted audio transmission. The second encoder then processes the original audio input signal to produce encoded audio data, which is sent to the decoder for playback. This method ensures smooth transitions between encoders without audible artifacts or quality loss.
13. The audio conference device of claim 12 wherein the audio conference device is configured to release resources of the first encoder after the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder is completed.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing the efficient management of encoder resources during dynamic switching between audio data connections. In audio conferencing, multiple encoders may be used to handle different audio streams or quality levels, but switching between them can lead to resource inefficiencies if not managed properly. The invention provides an audio conference device that optimizes resource usage by releasing the resources of a first encoder after successfully switching the audio data connection to a second encoder. This ensures that encoder resources are freed up once they are no longer needed, improving system efficiency and reducing unnecessary computational overhead. The device includes at least two encoders, a switching mechanism to transfer the audio data connection between them, and a control system that monitors the switching process. Once the switch is confirmed as complete, the first encoder's resources are released, allowing them to be reallocated or powered down. This approach minimizes wasted resources while maintaining seamless audio transmission during the transition. The invention is particularly useful in large-scale or high-demand conferencing environments where efficient resource management is critical.
14. The audio conference device of claim 13 wherein the first encoder is configured to create the first encoded audio data and feed the decoder the first encoded audio data until the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder is completed.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically improving the transition between audio encoders during a conference call to maintain seamless audio quality. The problem addressed is the disruption that occurs when switching between different audio encoders in real-time communication systems, which can cause audio dropouts or quality degradation. The system includes a first encoder and a second encoder, each capable of encoding audio data for transmission. The first encoder is configured to continue encoding and feeding its output to a decoder even after the system begins transitioning to the second encoder. This ensures uninterrupted audio playback during the switch. The second encoder starts encoding audio data in parallel with the first encoder, and once the transition is complete, the system fully switches to the second encoder. The decoder processes the encoded audio data from both encoders during the transition, ensuring no gaps or disruptions in the audio stream. This approach allows for smooth handoff between encoders, which is particularly useful in scenarios where different encoding settings or codecs are required, such as adapting to network conditions or user preferences. The system ensures that the audio conference remains stable and high-quality throughout the transition.
15. The audio conference device of claim 1 wherein the audio conference device is configured such that the decoder operates unchanged after the switching over of the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder is completed.
This invention relates to audio conferencing systems, specifically addressing the challenge of seamless switching between different audio encoders during a conference call without disrupting the decoding process. In audio conferencing, multiple participants may use different encoding algorithms to compress and transmit audio data. When switching between encoders, such as transitioning from a low-complexity encoder to a high-quality encoder or vice versa, the decoder must continue operating without interruption to maintain call quality and user experience. The invention describes an audio conference device that includes a decoder and at least two encoders, where the device is configured to switch the audio data connection from a first encoder to a second encoder while ensuring the decoder remains unchanged and operational throughout the transition. This means the decoder does not need to be reconfigured or reset when the encoder switch occurs, preventing audio dropouts, glitches, or delays. The system may involve synchronization mechanisms, buffer management, or protocol handling to ensure smooth handoff between encoders. The invention may also include error detection and correction features to handle any discrepancies that arise during the switch. The overall goal is to provide uninterrupted, high-quality audio communication in dynamic conferencing environments where encoding parameters or algorithms may change.
16. A communication system comprising: an audio conference device including: a first encoder associated with a first group of at least one audio signal having classification information of at least one audio quality that is within a first pre-selected threshold; and a second encoder associated with a second group of at least one audio signal having classification information of at least one audio quality that is within a second pre-selected threshold that differs from the first pre-selected threshold; and a decoder; wherein the audio conference device is configured to facilitate performance of a method for switching between the first encoder and the second encoder for an audio data connection existing between the first encoder and the decoder, the method comprising: creating encoded audio data via the first encoder using encoder parameters to encode a first audio input signal fed to the first encoder; feeding the decoder the encoded audio data via the first encoder; forming encoder parameters of a second encoder at a current time segment based on a fed audio input signal of the current time segment fed to the first encoder as well as by the audio input signal of at least one previous time segment fed to the first encoder to synchronize the encoder parameters of the second encoder with the encoder parameters of the first encoder such that the encoder parameters of the second encoder are identical to the encoder parameters of the first encoder; and switching over the audio data connection from the first encoder to the second encoder after the encoder parameters of the second encoder are synchronized with the encoder parameters of the first encoder such that during the switchover the audio connection is switched over from the first encoder to the second encoder at an onset of synchronization of the encoder parameters of the first and second encoders, the second encoder having the audio connection with the decoder after the switching over of the audio connection.
The communication system is designed for audio conferencing, addressing the challenge of maintaining seamless audio quality transitions during encoder switching. The system includes an audio conference device with multiple encoders, each handling different audio quality thresholds. A first encoder processes audio signals meeting a first quality threshold, while a second encoder handles signals within a different, second threshold. The device also includes a decoder for reconstructing the audio. The system dynamically switches between encoders to optimize audio quality based on real-time conditions. During switching, the second encoder synchronizes its parameters with the first encoder using current and historical audio input signals, ensuring identical encoding states. Once synchronized, the audio data connection seamlessly transitions from the first to the second encoder at the synchronization point, maintaining uninterrupted audio flow. This approach prevents quality degradation or artifacts during encoder transitions, enhancing the overall conferencing experience.
17. The communication system claim 16 wherein the forming of the encoder parameters of the second encoder at the current time segment is performed so that the switchover from the first encoder to the second encoder is occurrable without discontinuities in a signal waveform of encoded audio data sent to the decoder.
This invention relates to communication systems that encode and decode audio data, specifically addressing the challenge of seamless switching between different audio encoders without introducing discontinuities in the encoded signal. The system includes a first encoder and a second encoder, each configured to process audio data in time segments. The second encoder generates encoder parameters at a current time segment based on the first encoder's parameters from a previous time segment. This ensures that when the system switches from the first encoder to the second encoder, the transition occurs smoothly, maintaining continuity in the encoded audio waveform. The encoder parameters may include spectral or temporal characteristics of the audio data, and the second encoder adjusts its parameters to match or interpolate between the first encoder's parameters, preventing audible artifacts or distortions during the switch. The system may also include a decoder that reconstructs the audio signal from the encoded data, benefiting from the seamless transition between encoders. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring dynamic encoder switching, such as adaptive bitrate streaming or error recovery in real-time communication.
18. The communication system of claim 17 wherein the switching over is performed such that the first encoder is no longer needed for providing encoded audio data to the decoder for reducing a number of encoders needed for encoding audio data for an audio conference.
This invention relates to a communication system for audio conferencing that optimizes the use of encoders to reduce computational and resource overhead. In audio conferencing, multiple participants generate audio streams that must be encoded and decoded for transmission. A common challenge is efficiently managing the encoding process to minimize the number of encoders required while maintaining real-time communication quality. The system includes at least two encoders and a decoder. The first encoder processes audio data from a first participant, while the second encoder processes audio data from a second participant. The system dynamically switches over from the first encoder to the second encoder when the first encoder is no longer needed, such as when the first participant stops speaking or when their audio stream is no longer required for the conference. This switching reduces the total number of active encoders, conserving processing resources and reducing latency. The decoder receives encoded audio data from the active encoders and reconstructs the audio streams for distribution to other participants. By dynamically managing encoder usage, the system ensures efficient resource allocation without degrading audio quality. This approach is particularly useful in large-scale or resource-constrained audio conferencing environments where minimizing encoder count is critical.
19. The communication system of claim 16 wherein the audio conference device is connected to at least one terminal device to receive the at least one audio signal of the first group.
This invention relates to communication systems designed for audio conferencing, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing and distributing audio signals among multiple devices in a conference environment. The system includes an audio conference device that processes and routes audio signals between various terminal devices, such as microphones, speakers, or other audio input/output devices. The audio conference device is configured to receive at least one audio signal from a first group of terminal devices, which may include microphones or other audio sources. The system ensures that these audio signals are properly captured, processed, and distributed to other connected devices, enabling seamless communication among participants. The audio conference device may also include features for signal mixing, noise reduction, or prioritization to enhance audio quality and clarity during conferences. The invention aims to improve the reliability and efficiency of audio signal transmission in conferencing applications, ensuring that all participants can clearly hear and contribute to the discussion. The system may be used in various settings, including business meetings, educational seminars, or remote collaboration sessions, where high-quality audio communication is essential.
Unknown
February 25, 2020
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